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20 Contemporary Canadian Artists to Collect Right Now.

Do professional Artists collect other Artist’s work? Hell yes we do, of course we do, we were born loving Art. In addition to collecting my own work, I collect work by other artists, mostly painters and mostly Canadian. Whether gifted, traded for, bought at auction, online or in a artists gallery, I am also a collector of primarily Canadian Artists. Here is a list of twenty Canadian Artists, I would put in my collection right now!

  1. Terry McCue is an Ojibway artist from the Curve Lake First Nation, in southeastern Ontario. I love his use of colour and subject matter. Bold and graphically pleasing contemporary Indigenous artworks. Canada House Gallery, Banff, Alberta Canada Canadian Artists to Collect
  2. Marsha Schuld is a multi-media artist working out of her studio in southern Saskatchewan. I love her clay crows and owls as well as her distinctive embroidery pieces. She received a second to none education from the skilled tutors at the Royal School of Needlework (RSN).  The result is a proudly earned Certification with Merit from the people who embroider the Queen’s coronation robes.  Willock & Sax, Banff Alberta  Canada
  3. Luther Pokrant his illustration work is thematic or historical, often of other artists or their work, or the creative process itself. I love his use of colour, his dreamy subject matter and palettes and his visual storytelling. Mayberry Fine Art, Winnipeg
  4. Diana Thorneycroft is a Winnipeg artist and photographer who became known for her installation photographs and re-creations of Group of Seven paintings. She brings humour to the socio-political commentary and stories she is weaving through her detailed photographs. Michael Gibson Gallery, London Ontario
  5. Winnie Truong is a Toronto artist working with drawing and animation to explore ideas of identity, feminism, and fantasy and finding its connections and transgressions in the natural world. I love her drawings, they are precise designs with feminine treasures and stories held within. Patel Brown Gallery, Toronto Canada
  6. Mike Hansen is a senior Canadian artist who uses sound and noise to develop artworks in various mediums. He is well known as an established colourist painter, sound artist and experimental musician. His body of work explores the visualization of sound and noise. While I love his large abstract paintings of colour and form, I was quite intrigued by his upholstered pieces that I slept under at the Pouch Cove residency in Newfoundland. James Baird Gallery, Newfoundland
  7. Andrew Valko is a well-known Canadian Hyper-Realist whose paintings explore the psychological tension caused by observation. Layered with open-ended ambiguity, his compositions subtly weave narratives that imply that there is much more than meets the eye. The works are set in neon-lit motels, drive-in theatres and parking lots; it is in these transient locations that Valko captures intense moments that tell an unfinished story. Louis K. Meisel Gallery, NYC Canadian Artists to Collect
  8. Daren Whalen more often the subject of his paintings are people. Intensely detailed and beautiful figurative paintings that tell stories of Newfoundland. Emma Butler Gallery, Newfoundland, Canada Canadian Artists to Collect
  9. Kent Monkman is an interdisciplinary Cree visual artist. A member of Fisher River Cree Nation in Treaty 5 Territory (Manitoba), he lives and works in New York City and Toronto. Gender fluid, Indigenous commentaries on colonialism, realistic visual stories fused with fantasy and magic. Artists’ website.
  10. Kim Dorland’s practice reflects a fascination with the enigmatic Canadian landscape as it comes into contact with contemporary urban experience. The psychological atmosphere represented by Dorland is confrontational and hallucinatory, disrupting conventional ideas that the natural world is a place of solace and contemplation. His paintings fascinate me and I am drawn to the sometimes fluorescent palettes and dark imagery. Another painter that tells visual stories in his work. Angell Gallery, Toronto CanadaCanadian Artists to Collect
  11. Karel Funk lives and works in Winnipeg, Canada. Contemporary urbanism, technical figurative paintings, backs of hoodies, jackets and hats, they draw you into his paintings. The minimalism and cool tones add to the mystery of who might be wearing those clothes. Monte Clark Gallery, Vancouver BC
  12. David Pirrie – obsessed with mountain’s, this painter offers a contemporary pop art style take on these marvelous beauties. Meticulously rendered and fused with vivid colours and distinctive patterns. Ian Tan Gallery, Vancouver BC
  13. Eric Louie is a Vancouver-based painter whose vibrant compositions are being recognized by numerous collectors both public and private. His signature metallic, shimmering forms, achieved via many thin layers of luminescent glazes, are central to the virtual worlds he creates. These abstract paintings are somewhat transcendental in nature. They are metallic meditations on the rythyms of nature.  Bau-Xi Gallery, Toronto Ontario
  14. Shawn Serfas – thick and juicy, vivid and dimensional, buttery and sculptural, his abstracts are a treat to delve into. – Sopa Fine Arts, Kelowna BC
  15. Catherine Blackburn – contemporary Indigenous beadwork and living sculptures. Artist website.
  16. Curtis Cutshaw – textual abstracts of sculptural collage, makes me want to stare for hours and try and find the words within. Kostiuk Gallery, Vancouver BC
  17. Luke Ramsay – magical landscapes and west coast FERRY tales of form and pastel palettes Madrona Gallery, Victoria BC
  18. Angela Grossman – human figures and ephemeral layers of letters, photographs, addresses, envelopes, postage and cancellation marks. Herringer Kiss Gallery Calgary, AB
  19. Steve Driscoll – creates fine art using unorthodox materials. I find his abstract searing landscapes Hockney-esque and glossy.  – Peter Robertson Gallery, Edmonton, Canada
  20. Bob Kebic – Group Of Seven-esque, textural and vivid abstract landscapes. They male you feel alive and joyful. They make you smile every time you see them. Mayberry Fine Art, Winnipeg, Canada Canadian Artists to Collect

From hyper-realism, to figurative, narrative, abstract, landscape and fine embroidery craft, these are twenty artworks by contemporary Canadian artists I would put in my collection right now.

Canadian Artists to Collect

A Journey through Five Significant Paintings by Brandy Saturley.

Art has the incredible power to captivate and inspire us, evoking emotions, and deep contemplation. Brandy Saturley, a contemporary Canadian artist, has created a series of thought-provoking paintings that invite us into her world. In this blog post, we will explore the significance and impact of five remarkable works by Saturley: “Let Your Backbone Rise,” “With Hearts on Our Sleeves,” “Goalie’s Mask: red, white & Dryden,” “Ukraine Strong,” and “Canadiens Gothic.” Each painting conveys a unique narrative, inviting viewers to reflect on themes of identity, resilience, passion, and cultural pride. Here are Five Significant Paintings, by Brandy Saturley.

“Let Your Backbone Rise” is a mesmerizing piece that symbolizes strength, courage, and determination. Saturley’s use of bold colors and dynamic brushstrokes creates a powerful visual impact, reflecting the unwavering spirit within us all. The painting reminds us to embrace our inner resilience, to stand tall even in the face of adversity. Saturley’s portrayal of the human figure with an upright backbone serves as a metaphor for personal growth and self-belief. “Let Your Backbone Rise” encourages viewers to tap into their own inner strength and conquer the challenges that life presents.

Five Significant Paintings

In “With Hearts on Our Sleeves,” Saturley delves into the complexities of human emotion and vulnerability. The painting captures a sense of raw honesty and authenticity, depicting figures with exposed hearts on their sleeves. This evocative imagery serves as a reminder of the power and beauty found in embracing our emotions fully. Saturley’s work prompts us to appreciate the courage it takes to be vulnerable and encourages us to connect with our own emotions and those of others. “With Hearts on Our Sleeves” speaks to the universal desire for genuine connections and the importance of empathy in our daily lives.

Five Significant Paintings

Five Significant Paintings: The Goalie’s Mask Painting

“Goalie’s Mask: red, white & Dryden” pays tribute to the iconic goaltender Ken Dryden, immortalizing him in art. The painting captures the intensity and focus of a goalie, with vibrant red and white hues symbolizing the national pride associated with the sport. Through this piece, Saturley celebrates not only Dryden’s athletic prowess but also the cultural significance of hockey in Canadian identity. By combining elements of portraiture and sports imagery, “Goalie’s Mask” underscores the passion and dedication that unite communities across Canada, reminding us of the shared love and pride associated with our national sport.

Five Significant Paintings

“Ukraine Strong” is a visually stunning work that explores the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people. Saturley’s use of vibrant blue and yellow hues, the colors of the Ukrainian flag, symbolizes unity and national pride. The painting serves as a homage to the struggles and triumphs of the Ukrainian community, acknowledging their resilience in the face of adversity. Saturley’s representation of a traditional Ukrainian headdress, known as a “vinok,” further emphasizes the connection to Ukrainian culture and heritage. “Ukraine Strong” invites viewers to reflect on the power of cultural identity and the enduring spirit of a nation.

Ukrainian Painting Saturley

Painting draws inspiration from Grant Wood’s famous “American Gothic”

In “Canadiens Gothic,” Saturley merges the worlds of art and hockey once again, paying homage to the Montreal Canadiens, an iconic team in the National Hockey League. The painting draws inspiration from Grant Wood’s famous “American Gothic,” replacing the stoic farmers with hockey enthusiasts, proudly donning hockey jersey and bunny hug. The painting is a hockey heritage homage to the rich history and cultural significance of the Montreal Canadiens hockey team. This artwork symbolizes the deep-rooted connection between the team and its passionate fans, highlighting the role of hockey as a unifying force in Canadian culture. The Montreal Canadiens hold a storied legacy, boasting a record 24 Stanley Cup championships, making them one of the most successful franchises in NHL history. By merging art and sports, Saturley captures the essence of the Canadiens’ enduring popularity and the unwavering loyalty of their fanbase. The painting invites viewers to reflect on the historical significance of the team and its impact on the collective identity of Montreal and the broader hockey community. “Canadiens Gothic” stands as a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together, fostering a sense of belonging, and celebrating the heritage that intertwines the love of the game with a deep-rooted sense of pride and camaraderie.

Five Significant Paintings

Saturley recently spoke to Canadian Art Today about the significance of her paintings about Canada created over the past decade.

Creating a great work of art, begins long before the physical act of painting.

Artwork is defined as the production of artistic work, such as painting or sculpture, but the work of art begins long before the physical production of making the art. I just returned from a nine day journey across Western Canada, from Prairies to Salish Sea. The last time I spent a significant amount of time exploring Canada was in 2016, working up to solo exhibitions of my work in 2017. At that time I was fortunate enough to explore the Northwest Territories, BC, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec. As this pandemic year of 2020 has us quarantined to our homes and socially distancing from other humans for the Spring, the recent opening up of the provinces to travel put me in a position to take off and recharge my batteries. On this tour rather than spend time with different art friends in each province, I joined forces with a friend from film-making days. The last time we worked together was way back in 1994 on a live feed satellite TV series for the Royal BC Museum, called SAFARI. With Mrs. Rogers now retired from the film industry and working as a photographer and photojournalist, and with me working as a full-time self-representing visual artist; now is the perfect time to re-connect on a epic journey across Western Canada.

Mid-July we boarded a Westjet flight in Victoria BC and flew into Brandon , Manitoba. Over the course of the next nine days we would make our way across the provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and BC. We plotted a course that would take us through some of the most stunningly unique landscapes Canada has to offer. This journey did not come without challenges, as in the year of COVID-19 our attention to details must be sharp, in order to stay healthy. As we boarded our 6am flight from Victoria, we prepared ourselves with masks, hand sanitizer and a pep talk. From the moment we entered the airport, to the moment we arrived at our destination, we were encouraged by our flight crew and the cleanliness of the plane. On the flight there were a variety moods witnessed by flight crew and fellow passengers, the air was tense but also positive. A young woman boarded the plane with baby and multiple bags, she was visibly upset and those around her, even in this pandemic year, were offering comfort and help with baggage. With sun up and mostly clear skies we settled in to enjoy the summer views of the rocky mountains, and the prairie crops of canola yellow, flax blue and early wheat green.

Rocky Mountains photo aerial black and white

Landing in Brandon we were met with muggy heat and drowned canola fields from the recent flooding, which means LOTS of bugs that like to dine on human flesh and blood. The skies were overcast shades of payne’s grey against canola yellow and cutouts of sky blue, the light was changing rapidly, the perfect set-up for two artists with Nikon camera’s in tow. Nature was busy painting and we were busy capturing.

westjet flight over prairie fields of canola

With three days in Brandon to pick up and pack a car, say a quick hello, and explore a few sites our choices were diverse, giving us a broad overview of the Wheat City. Beginning in Gladstone, we then branched out to Souris, Oak Island, Griswold and the canola and wheat fields around the city. With the wheat still green, the canola neon yellow against dramatic skies of blue to grey; it was a feast for a painter’s and photographers eyes.

photo of canola and rainbow in Brandon Manitoba

the work of art begins

Canadian Visual Artist Brandy Saturley with her Nikon camera

Day 4 we set out to Saskatchewan. Stops included; Indian Head, Moose Jaw, and Swift Current. My first time in this prairie province, I was romanced by the vast fields and skies that go on forever. Canola yellow, early wheat green, big sky and flax flower blues. A feast for a painter’s eyes, and information for future palettes.

Saskatchewan barn and fields

Saskatchewan roadside fields of flax blue and canola yellow

Day 5 we were off to Alberta. Stops included Medicine Hat, Bow Island & Waterton Lakes. Now we are getting hilly as we head into the mountains, not so flat and many more people to be found heading into Waterton.

the work of art begins

reflections off motorcycle helmet

Day 6 found us Waterton Lakes bound, this was the BIG stop on the tour, tucked in for two nights to explore the flora and fauna of the area, hike a mountain and take a boat tour of Waterton Lake, crossing over the border momentarily into the USA.

Waterton Lakes National Park July 2020 Summer tourism

the work of art begins

Day 8 we hit Creston and explored the old town.

Creston BC heritage buildings

Tivoli theatre Creston BC

Day 9 Osoyoos met us with heat, Indigenous lands, abundant orchards and vineyards, and desert-like vistas.

Spotted Lake Osoyoos BC

Spotted Lake Osoyoos BC July 2020

Fernandes Farms Osoyoos - BC fruit season

Day 10 homeward bound on BC Ferries vessel, Coastal Celebration from Tswassen terminal to Swartz Bay terminal.

Penny Rogers Photography and Writing - Canadian Photojournalist

the work of art begins

Canadian Visual Artist Brandy Saturley, on location.

Duelling Nikons - D750 and D810

While the tour is over, the work is just beginning. For Penny Rogers it will be editing, cataloguing, writing and posting photos to Getty Images. For me it will be downloading, editing and compiling photos, followed by sketching out ideas, developing colour schemes or palettes, mixing paints, and then painting. Later on process videos and recorded video from the landscapes and trip will follow. While on this tour I was posting daily to my Instagram page – hashtag for this trip is #gowestroadtrip2020 . More to come!

This is the WORK behind the making of artwork. Whether it be film, video, writing, photography, or painting. This process takes time, and the payoff? Something original, one-of-a-kind, this is something enduring and worth investing in, something that will be enjoyed and exist for generations to come.

Sincerely Yours,

Brandy Saturley

The photos in this story were shot by Brandy Saturley on iPhone and Nikon D810, Both photographers were shooting using Nikon cameras D750 and D810 – full portfolio of both photographers will be available to view in the coming months.

13 Years Making Art as a Professional Canadian Artist.

It is true that in some cultures, the number 13 is lucky. Last year I entered my 13th year of making Art and working as a professional Canadian Artist, full-time. July 1st every year, which coincidentally is Canada Day, always marks the anniversary of my Art business. Every year, I write a new blog post celebrating the day and reflecting on the year that was. Last year I gave each year a ‘period or theme’ to represent the year. From paintings of trees to Las Vegas and The Beatles to the Big C, there have been many thematic transitions in my work over the years. Year 5 marked the beginning of #ICONICCANUCK and shortly after my ‘Pop Canadianisms’ took over right up until year 13. Consistency found in the theme of ‘Canada’ and in year 13, I decided to ‘disrupt’ my practice to grow as an artist by jetting off to London for a month, a big gamble for an artist who has developed an identity as ‘the Voice of Canadian Pop Art’.

As we are now in the COVID-19 era, I am even more convinced that year 13 was indeed lucky, because if it happened this year, it would not have happened. Year 13 included an invitation to join the summer contemporary art intensive at the world’s number one postgraduate art school, the Royal College of Art in London, England – I spent a month making art, talking art and showing art in a school that includes alumnus such as David Hockney and Tracey Emin, two of the biggest artist names in the world, and one of the oldest art institutions. It was an EPIC experience and am so grateful to all the artists, educators and art lovers who helped make it one of the most enriching experiences of my career, so far. Wow, I am still basking in the warm glow of that experience. Rather than recap the past 13 years, this year I want to recap the past 12 months, because these last few have been LONGGGG, so here we go!

Here are, twelve images for 12 months of my 13th year as a full-time professional Canadian Artist.

July 2019 – The Pack and Tidy

Canadian artists studio Brandy Saturley

Tidying up studio before leaving for London.

August 2019 – The London Studio

Professional Canadian artist

professional Canadian artist

professional Canadian artist

Brandy Saturley in painting studios at RCA Battersea London, UK and final exhibition at the Dyson Gallery.

September 2019 – Blending New Concepts with Existing Projects

Brandy Saturley painting Canadian Landscapes

Brandy Saturley painting on large landscapes un-stretched cotton duck canvas in her Victoria BC Studio

October 2019: Documentary – The Iconic Canuck

Brandy Saturley talking with Winnipeg filmmaker Randy Frykas, in her North Saanich studio.

November 2019 – painting REALLY BIG Landscapes

December 2019 – Christmas Catalgoue

Canadian Art catalogue magazine

Annual Christmas catalogue mailed out to collectors.

January 2020 – People of Canada

Portraits of Canadians by Brandy Saturley

Portrait painting by Brandy Saturley for the People of Canada Portrait series.

February 2020 – Different Strokes

painting of Canadian flag 2020

New painting technique post London is developing in a new landscape painting.

March 2020 – Print Run

canadian artist editions

20 paintings offered as digital reproduction prints on paper for 2020.

April 2020 – First Virtual Exhibition

Landscape art exhibition

First exhibition of Mountain Forms Collective – collaborative mountain paintings by Brandy Saturley & Gisa Mayer.

May 2020 – Second Virtual Exhibition & Underwater

Canadian Art Project

First Exhibition of The People of Canada Portrait Project by Brandy Saturley – collaboration with everyday Canadians across the country.

Brandy Saturley studio flood

Pipe burst in my studio and the restoration crew had to be called in during a pandemic!

June 2020 – A Modern Romance 

paintings about romance

About Canadian Artist Brandy Saturley

With my studio temporarily moved to a small bedroom, my work began to focus on the romance of the small apartment studio as it brought back memories from my early days painting and living in my 600 SqFt condo. Always keep your old easel!

July 2020 – Third Virtual Exhibition – The BIG ONE

Brandy Saturley Gallery Canadian Paintings

With Canada Day in the air and a new painting inspired by the need for HUGS across the country, I opened my third virtual exhibition experience, this time featuring 51 paintings from the past decade of painting Pop Canadianisms.

It has been quite the year! ‘before times’ is a term that is quickly identifying a different time in or culture, as things start to open up here again in Canada I am excited to be going out on the road, haven’t left the island since the end of February and this time I will be driving through Saskatchewan, a prairie province I have never visited.

Right now the focus is to keep on making Art, making paintings, selling paintings, showing art, re-building my studio and maybe even finding an art advisor, dealer or salesperson that loves my Art and shares my values. For me it is important to keep on investing in myself. I have been doing it all for 13 years and I could use an art advisor on my side, the right gallery in my corner or perhaps simply a sales person to help push the work out further than I have already done on my own.

Be well out there and keep on pushing forward.

Sincerely Yours,

Brandy Saturley

Canada150 Art Exhibitions: ‘CANADIANISMS’ opens at Okotoks Art Gallery

Originally published June 15, 2017

Calgary Artist Gordon Milne with Victoria Artist Brandy Saturley at the opening of Saturley's 'Canadianisms' at Okotoks Art Gallery, June 2017. | photo: Penny Rogers

Calgary Artist Gordon Milne with Victoria Artist Brandy Saturley at the opening of Saturley’s ‘Canadianisms’ at Okotoks Art Gallery, June 2017. | photo: Penny Rogers

A celebratory and intimate art opening at Okotoks Art Gallery on June 9. Housed inside an old CP Railway station, CANADIANISMS brought a patriotic and vibrant vibe to the main gallery just in time for Canada150 celebrations. A big thank you to the town of Okotoks and Okotoks Culture and Heritage, as well as the gallery staff for producing a spirited event. This past weekend also included an unveiling of the Canada150 Community Mosaic and the OAG members show inspired by the railway, From Cow-Catcher to Caboose.

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 - Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 – Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 - Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 – Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 - Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 – Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 - Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 – Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 - Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 – Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 - Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

CANADIANISMS: A Half Decade Inspired by Canada at  Okotoks Art Gallery at The Station | June 10 – Sept 2, 2017 | Brandy Saturley

 

With Okotoks Culture & Heritage Manager, Allan Boss and Okotoks artist Annette Resler

With Okotoks Culture & Heritage Manager, Allan Boss and Okotoks artist Annette Resler

 

Canadian Art Junkie shines a light on 150 Canadian Artists for Canada 150

Originally published June 29, 2017

A favourite Canadian Art Blog, ‘Canadian Art Junkie’ has been shining a light on Canadian Artists this year, and I am happy to be included in this iconic list of creators. Featuring a curated serving of the visual arts from Canada and around the world. With her 150 Canadian Artists for Canada150 feature, the ‘Art Junkie’ is bringing light to a diverse group of prolific artists in the Great White North, these are significant Canadian Artists you should know. “For five years Saturley sussed out the icons and settings that make us Canadian.  Her works are on exhibition in Canadianisms, at Okotoks Gallery near Calgary through Sept. 2.” – read the full article here.

Canadian Art Junkie Feature

Canadian Art Junkie – 30/150 Canadian Symbols – Brandy Saturley

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spanning a decade, these Canadian pop art paintings by Canadian Visual Artist Brandy Saturley create an open dialogue of what it means to be Canadian. They are informed by our iconography, our passion, our humour, our tolerance and kindness. From public galleries in BC, Alberta and Ontario, to public and private art collections across Canada, these paintings of Victoria born painter Brandy Saturley, have garnered the artist notoriety as “The Voice of Canadian Pop Art”. Begun in 2010, the year of the Vancouver Olympic Games, with painting a goal tenders mask on the Canadian flag, Saturley began exploring the collective Canadian consciousness in her paintings. Coining the term #ICONICCANUCK, the title of the first public gallery exhibition produced by the artist. Creating a distinctive style enjoyed by Canadian art collectors worldwide. You will find polar bears, red canoes, the Canadian flag, beer, wildlife, and iconic landscapes. Distinctly Canadian Art, rendered in a pop art style with elements of realism and modernism.